Question 1: Describe the main characteristics of ballet as a dance form. Include details about posture, movements, and music.

Answer: Ballet is characterized by graceful, precise movements, an upright posture, pointed toes, and flowing arm movements. It is often performed to classical music and emphasizes technique and symmetry.

Question 2: Identify two major dance styles that originated in the 20th century and explain their cultural significance.

Answer: Hip-hop, which originated in the Bronx in the 1970s, reflects urban culture and is associated with self-expression and social issues. Modern dance, emerging in the early 20th century, broke traditional rules and emphasized personal expression and innovation.

Question 3: Explain the influence of African dance traditions on contemporary dance styles.

Answer: African dance traditions contributed rhythmic complexity, expressive movements, and communal participation, influencing styles such as jazz, hip-hop, and modern dance.

Question 4: Discuss the significance of Isadora Duncan in the development of modern dance.

Answer: Isadora Duncan is considered a pioneer of modern dance, promoting natural movement, emotional expression, and rejecting classical ballet's rigid techniques, thus inspiring freedom in dance.

Question 5: Describe how the social and political climate of the 1960s influenced dance styles of that decade.

Answer: The 1960s was a time of social change and political activism, which influenced dance to become more expressive and rebellious. Styles like jazz dance and experimental modern dance reflected the era's desire for freedom and social commentary.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram showing the typical posture of a classical ballet dancer at the barre. Label the key parts of the body involved.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a dancer standing upright with feet in first position, arms rounded and held in front at waist level, shoulders relaxed, and head held high. Labels would include feet, arms, shoulders, and head.

Question 7: Identify and briefly describe the costume typically worn by traditional Indian Bharatanatyam dancers.

Answer: Bharatanatyam dancers wear a brightly colored silk sari with gold embellishments, traditional jewelry, and ankle bells called ghungroos that accentuate rhythmic footwork.

Question 8: Explain the impact of social media and digital technology on the dissemination of modern dance styles today.

Answer: Social media and digital platforms allow dancers to share performances globally, reach wider audiences, collaborate across borders, and inspire new trends rapidly, making dance more accessible and diverse.

Question 9: Choose one famous dancer or choreographer from history (e.g., Martha Graham, Rudolf Nureyev) and describe their contribution to dance.

Answer: Martha Graham was a pioneering modern dancer and choreographer who developed her own technique emphasizing contraction and release, and she significantly influenced contemporary dance through her innovative works.